This home, designed by and for the architect, is a second dwelling on a large, steeply sloping site. It is a contemporary, functional family home, carefully adapted to the site’s unique conditions. Designed for thermal efficiency, it remains warm and well-ventilated with minimal energy use.

Located on the northern slopes of a small bush-covered valley at the edge of Wellington Harbour, the property is accessed from the street below. The lower portion of the site is occupied by large trees and a 1920s villa, while the new dwelling is positioned 30 meters uphill at the upper end of the site.

Oriented east-west, the living spaces capture sunlight throughout the day and offer views across the valley and toward the harbour. The house is carefully positioned to complement the existing villa below, with a stairway ‘spine’ connecting the two dwellings. This stairway encourages both intentional and incidental interactions, reinforcing a sense of community. A trampoline on one of the terraced areas serves as a shared play space for families from both homes and the immediate neighbours.

The home’s elevated location influenced material choices. With no access for heavy lifting equipment, the structure is primarily timber-framed, and lightweight EPS blocks were used where retaining was needed. Materials were selected for their durability and natural beauty, with finishes left raw and protected by natural wood oils. Inside, a variety of timbers add warmth and texture.

Externally, the house is clad mainly in corrugated Colorsteel for its low maintenance and cost efficiency. The cladding is delicately detailed, and where the form is more exposed or frequently encountered, Western Red Cedar has been introduced to provide a softer, more tactile contrast.

Photography - Simon Devitt